The Chinese Exclusion Act (2017) movie backdrop
The Chinese Exclusion Act (2017) movie poster
2017161 minDocumentary, History
Audience VerdictSUPER HIT

The Chinese Exclusion Act

The Chinese Exclusion Act Movie Hit or Flop?

HIT

Verdict:The Chinese Exclusion Act is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 8.0/10, it has delivered a compelling experience for fans of the Documentary, History genre.

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, The Chinese Exclusion Act is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.

It features a runtime of 161 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences. Bottom Line: Highly recommended!

8.04 votes
161Minutes
2017Release Year
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The Chinese Exclusion Act Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 2017, The Chinese Exclusion Act enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on A sweeping chronicle of the entire exclusion era - the latter part of the 1800s, when anti-Chinese agitation led to federal laws targeting Chinese abroad and those already in the country. Under the direction of Ric Burns, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Hoon Lee. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, The Chinese Exclusion Act offers a visually stunning presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 161-minute runtime can feel deliberate.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, The Chinese Exclusion Act resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It effectively mirrors local sentiment while maintaining a global appeal, a rare feat in recent releases.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of early 2026, The Chinese Exclusion Act is available for streaming on PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of The Chinese Exclusion Act centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. A sweeping chronicle of the entire exclusion era - the latter part of the 1800s, when anti-Chinese agitation led to federal laws targeting Chinese abroad and those already in the country. Go far beyond the legislation with the survival and growth of Chinese American communities in the face of prejudice and outright violence, the “paper” sons and daughters who emigrated despite the seemingly impassable barriers, and the legal challenges that produced some of the most momentous decisions in Supreme Court history. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2017 cinema will find satisfying and robust.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of The Chinese Exclusion Act has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the triumph of the protagonist over internal conflicts. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Chinese Exclusion Act sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for The Chinese Exclusion Act (2017): with an audience rating of 8/10, the reception has been acclaimed. It is a must-watch for fans of Documentary, History cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Where to Watch The Chinese Exclusion Act Online?

Streaming Hub

📺 Stream on

PBS Documentaries Amazon ChannelPBS Documentaries Amazon Channel

🎟️ Rent on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV

🏷️ Buy on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video
Apple TVApple TV

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
The Chinese Exclusion Act has not been officially rated yet.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 8/10, and global collection metrics, The Chinese Exclusion Act stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2017 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act movie hit or flop?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 8/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Documentary, History movies.

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act worth watching?

Yes, The Chinese Exclusion Act is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Documentary, History cinema.

Where can I watch The Chinese Exclusion Act online?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is currently available for streaming on PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel depending on your region.

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 8.0
The Chinese Exclusion Act
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/the-chinese-exclusion-act-484615" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 8.0</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">The Chinese Exclusion Act</div></div></a>

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More with Hoon Lee

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act movie hit or flop?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 8/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Documentary, History movies.

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act worth watching?

Yes, The Chinese Exclusion Act is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Documentary, History cinema.

Where can I watch The Chinese Exclusion Act online?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is currently available for streaming on PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like PBS Documentaries Amazon Channel depending on your region.

What is the story of The Chinese Exclusion Act?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is a Documentary, History movie that follows: A sweeping chronicle of the entire exclusion era - the latter part of the 1800s, when anti-Chinese agitation led to federal laws targeting Chinese abroad and those already in the country. Go far beyon...

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act family friendly?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is classified as Documentary, History. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.

What language is The Chinese Exclusion Act available in?

The Chinese Exclusion Act is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.

Synopsis

A sweeping chronicle of the entire exclusion era - the latter part of the 1800s, when anti-Chinese agitation led to federal laws targeting Chinese abroad and those already in the country. Go far beyond the legislation with the survival and growth of Chinese American communities in the face of prejudice and outright violence, the “paper” sons and daughters who emigrated despite the seemingly impassable barriers, and the legal challenges that produced some of the most momentous decisions in Supreme Court history.

Critic Reviews

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